Iraq’s election commission pledges to curb extremist rhetoric ahead of November vote

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission said Wednesday it is prepared to hold parliamentary elections on Nov. 11 and will adopt new measures to counter extremist rhetoric during campaigning, including monitoring social media.

Omar Ahmed, head of the IHEC Board of Commissioners, said the commission will “strengthen legal frameworks that criminalize hate speech and incitement to violence, while ensuring freedom of opinion and expression within the limits of the law.”

Speaking at a conference on combating extremist speech in election campaigns, Ahmed said the recommendations will support the electoral process and “the democratic path in the country.” He noted the commission will monitor campaigns and social media “to detect violations and address them quickly and transparently,” while coordinating with security forces to protect polling centers, voters, staff, and candidates.

“Confronting extremist discourse is not the responsibility of the commission alone, but a collective national responsibility,” Ahmed said. “We need parties that put the country’s interest above narrow interests, media that adheres to professionalism, and citizens who choose their words as carefully as they choose their votes.”

He added that the commission is “ready to conduct the elections on schedule,” stands “at equal distance from all competing lists and candidates,” and has kept its doors open to receive feedback and inquiries.